Newcastle set to make a new run at Burnley goalie James Trafford: Report
Yesterday at 05:00 AM
The Magpies are relentless in their pursuit of young netminder blood.
Newcastle United have sent head of recruitment Steve Nickson to scout Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, but an official move for the 22-year-old is unlikely in January, according to Craig Hope of the Daily Mail.
The Magpies remain highly interested in Trafford as a long-term option to compete with and eventually succeed current No. 1 Nick Pope, but an immediate transfer seems out of NUFC's reach.
Nickson recently attended Burnley's goalless draw at Middlesbrough on Dec. 29, where Trafford impressed with both a clean sheet and good use of his feet to distribute the ball, something Eddie Howe seemingly appreciates at the position.
"Newcastle were close to signing the England Under-21 star back in August," Hope reported. "An offer for the Burnley goalkeeper is not anticipated in January."
While no formal bid materialized at that time due to Burnley's valuation, the Magpies continue to monitor the netminder with the intention of revisiting the deal in the summer.
With Nick Pope currently sidelined, there is added urgency to strengthen Newcastle's goalkeeping depth—let alone if Martin Dubravka ends up leaving on a free during the January transfer window.
Regarding Pope, Hope reported that the no. 1 goalie is targeting a return to training ahead of Newcastle's home game against Bournemouth on Jan. 18, though his match readiness remains uncertain and might take a while for him to regain his match shape and top form.
